Abstract: A continuous sheet of metal leaf advanced at a constant rate is moved at variable velocity through a rotary die stamper such that between stamps the metal leaf moves at a velocity which is slower than the velocity of a substrate web; but just prior to stamping the metal leaf is accelerated by contact between the metal leaf and a raised die rotating at the velocity of the substrate web so that when the stamp occurs the metal leaf is traveling at a velocity substantially equal to the velocity of the substrate web. Varying the velocity of the metal leaf has the effect of minimizing the distance the metal leaf travels between stamps which conserves consumption of the metal leaf. Separate means for accelerating the leaf prior to stamping and decelerating the leaf after stamping also may be provided.

Abstract: An insert for inclusion in a substantially sealed container to control the relative humidity within the container is provided. The insert is a packet at least part of the surface of which is a membrane capable of passing water vapor and which contains a buffering substance which is a saturated salt solution selected according to the desired relative humidity, and modified by a nonelectrolyte, if necessary, to adjust the relative humidity.

Abstract: An insert for inclusion in a substantially sealed container to control the relative humidity within the container is provided. The insert is a packet at least part of the surface of which is a membrane capable of passing water vapor and which contains a buffering substance which is a saturated salt solution selected according to the desired relative humidity, and modified by a nonelectrolyte, if necessary, to adjust the relative humidity.

Abstract: Circularly polarized monochromatic electromagnetic radiation of a wavelength correlating the maximum absorbance of a sample compound is directed through a flowing solution containing the sample compound, which exhibits circular dichroism activity, and a plurality of other compounds. Measurement of the circular dichroism effect and comparison of an alternating current signal corresponding to the circular dichroism absorption to a direct current component allows for the constant monitoring of the concentration of the sample compound in the flowing solution. The flowing solution may be under high temperature and pressure and may comprise a supercritical fluid.

Abstract: A process is disclosed for the preparation of a compound of formula (I): ##STR1## wherein Ar is aryl or substituted aryl and R.sup.3 is hydrogen, alkyl or aralkyl, which process comprises reducing a compound of formula (II): ##STR2## wherein Ar and R.sup.3 are as defined with respect to formula (I) and R.sup.4 is alkyl. Compounds of formula (I) are useful as chemical intermediates.

Abstract: A process is disclosed for the preparation of a compound of formula (I): ##STR1## where Ar is aryl or substituted aryl and R.sup.3 and R.sup.4 are the same or different and each is alkyl, which process comprises hydrognating a compound of formula (II): ##STR2## wherein Ar, R.sup.3 and R.sup.4 are as defined with respect to formula (I) and Hal is a halogen atom.Compounds of formula (I) are useful as chemical intermediates.